Beach bar owners in Majorca are calling for urgent government intervention after reporting a sharp decline in tourist spending and visitor numbers. The Association of Entrepreneurs of Concessions warned that August, typically a peak month, is failing to deliver expected revenue, with July turnover already down 20% compared to 2024.
Association president Onofre Fornés blamed "tourism-phobia" and rising costs for the slump, stating that high visitor numbers mask a deeper crisis. He urged the Balearic government to adopt measures to control prices and counteract negative perceptions that are driving tourists away.
Data shows UK visitor numbers to Majorca fell 23.2% in March, with similar declines from France (down 39.4%) and Italy (down 40.1%). Fornés criticised "irresponsible" protesters whose anti-tourism messages, he claims, are damaging the destination's image.
However, local activists argue that mass tourism has driven up housing costs and strained resources, with many residents unable to afford rent due to holiday lets. Spain has already begun removing unregulated Airbnb listings and monitoring beach crowds via a digital platform.
The Spanish Tourist Office insists it is working towards sustainable tourism, using technology to manage visitor numbers and environmental impact. Beach bar owners, meanwhile, fear further job losses if action is not taken soon.
